The Best Of 1995: MUSIC

1 SMASHING PUMPKINS Mellon Collie and the Infinite Sadness (Virgin). Raucous and sweet, pretentious and populist, this Chicago-based alternative rock group's hubristic double CD soared as high as its lofty ambitions, an Icarus with wings that worked. Bandleader Billy Corgan is adept at turning out swift, radio-ready hits, yet he also excels at creating epic art-pop songs that explore enigmatic ideas and twisting melodic pathways. For listeners looking to take a journey, not just a joyride, this is a trip that shouldn't be missed.

2 ALISON KRAUSS Now That I've Found You (Rounder). With this greatest-hits CD, the mass audience found...